NEW FAIRFIELD — The Board of Education has chosen a special education teacher from Region 15 to fill an open spot on the nine-member board.

Stephanie Strazza, who teaches at Rochambeau Middle School, was chosen unanimously by the board on Thursday after an executive session to discuss candidates for the open seat. The vacancy was left by Doug DeRito, who resigned last month.

“I was happy with their decision,” Strazza said on Friday. “I’m an educator and I thought that it would be a great way to serve my community. I’ve been considering it for a while and I thought this would be a good time to step up.”

Strazza , who has two children in New Fairfield schools, said she thinks the board has been going in a good direction and looks forward to adding her perspective to the group. She specifically hopes she can add to discussions about special education curriculum, because of her background as a behavioralist.

The board accepted applications for the vacancy until Sept. 28. Three candidates came to the meeting Thursday to talk to the board.